The most common name on Great Bernera is MacDonald (MacDhòmhnaill or Dòmhnallach), and these are said to be descended from a watchman of the Macaulays of Uig, who gave him the island in return for his services.

[4] After 1962 the island was owned by Robin de la Lanne-Mirrlees,[4] a former Queen's Herald, who was recognised as Laird of Bernera.

It was created in 1805 by the regular allotting of individual crofts by the Earl of Seaforth's land surveyor, James Chapman.

Callanish VIII is a unique standing stone arrangement near the bridge between Lewis and Bernera, set out in a semicircle.

[5] Bernera is also known for its Iron Age (or possibly Pictish) settlement at Bostadh (or Bosta),[10] discovered in 1992 and now covered by sand so that it is preserved.

This was a peasant revolt and subsequent legal case which resulted in a victory for oppressed small-tenants against the heavy-handed evictions and treatment by Donald Munro, the factor of Sir James Matheson.

The islanders refused to agree to remove their stock in favour of expanding sporting estates, and were in turn threatened with a military visit.

[14] The legal case was the first recorded victory for small-tenants at will and the evidence that was heard at the eleven-hour trial paved the way for land reform in Scotland.

The highest point is the eminence of Sealabhal Bhiorach south of Bostadh and north of Tobson that reaches 87 metres (285 feet).

The western side of the island is included in the South Lewis, Harris and North Uist National Scenic Area.

[16] Great Bernera hosts numerous seabird species, including gulls, waders and ducks such as goldeneye.

In 2022, a new pontoon was built close to Kirkibost Pier and further developments such as camper van hook up points, laundrette and shower are opening in 2023.

[19] In 2020, during a structural survey serious faults were identified and in 2021 work began to build a single span Delta bridge.